Showing posts with label Prince. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Prince. Show all posts

Friday, April 24, 2009

Quick Bits (Mini Reviews Of New Releases)


The Derek Trucks Band – Already Free
There is a homegrown organic looseness to these proceedings that sets the album apart from all of Trucks' previous offerings. The material is stellar. Its careful attention to feel creates a vibe that is altogether missing from the vast majority of recordings made in the last 30 years, yet it sounds timeless -- not retro -- because of the expert, tasteful nature of the playing and recording. “Already Free” is an excellent entry in the Trucks catalog. It's a stone killer. Recommended. Standout tracks: Down In The Flood, Sweet Inspiration, Back Where I Started You can purchase the CD here or the LP record here.


Prince - LotusFlow3r/MPLSound
Left to his own devices, Prince will indulge in his peculiar vice of releasing triple-albums. Technically, one of the three discs here isn't a Prince album: “Elixer” is the debut of Bria Valente, the latest in a long line of sultry soul protégés. “LotusFlow3r” is a Prince guitar showcase, and “MPLSound” is a revival of his '80s funk. “MPLSound” winds up with the greatest number of both highs and lows, while “LotusFlow3r” is constrained by its guitar-heavy concept, offering great moments instead of great whole songs. A nice one disc compilation would be nice, but this set is full of too much fluff and not enough substance. Not Recommended. Standout tracks: Crimson And Clover, 77 Beverly Park, Love Like Jazz You can purchase the CD here.